Heard on the Air: February 2008

Heard On The Air

Thursday, February 28, 2008

February 2008

Medical Benefits – Mark Reddig spoke with Rick Welsh of Welsh and Associates and Kari Russell of OOIDA’s Medical Benefits Department about the Advantage Medical Plans, a medical benefits program available to OOIDA members. The Medical Benefits Group has agents available from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. CST, Monday through Friday, to answer your questions and help you design a package of benefits that will best suit your needs. For more information:

Call our office at 1-800-715-9369;
Call the main number at OOIDA, 1-800-444-5791;
E-mail your request for a brochure or application here; or
Click here for more information.

Air date: Feb. 29, 2008.

It’s not easy being green – Land Line Magazine Staff Writer Charlie Morasch offered some observations about carbon impact and so-called “cap and trade” systems.

To read more click here.
You can visit Bonneville Environmental Foundation Web site here to calculate your own carbon footprint.

Air date: Feb. 29, 2008.

Texas DOT Survey – Texas has asked OOIDA’s help in getting owner-operators to tell them your opinions of tolling highways in Texas. A new state highway, SH130, is a toll road that just opened around the east side of Austin, TX. TxDOT is considering several ideas, like reduced off-peak tolls, to encourage more trucks to use the new road. We would like to learn more about your travel and how it might change if SH130 offered additional incentives. You can help guide TxDOT in making SH130 work best for you. The survey ends March 1, so go online and fill it out today. To take part, click here. Air date: Feb. 29, 2008.

Where’s the beef? – During today’s Listener Comment Line, one of the callers discussed an article by Land Line Magazine staff writer Clarissa Kell-Holland about food safety. To read Clarissa’s blog on the topic, click here. Air date: Feb. 29, 2008.

CARB – During today’s Listener Comment Line, one of the callers discussed CARB’s anti-idling laws. To read more by Land Line Magazine staff writer Charlie Morasch click here. Air date: Feb. 29. 2008.

Truck Vote – OOIDA is strongly encouraging truckers to become regular voters and to take part in this year’s election. You can find information about that on OOIDA’s voter registration Web site, TruckVote.com. Enter your ZIP code, and you’ll be directed to instructions on how to register in your state. Air date: Feb. 29, 2008.

OOIDA Tour Truck and OOIDA NASCAR Simulator - Howard and Pam Hart have OOIDA’s Tour Truck, The Spirit of the American Trucker, at the Petro truck stop in San Antonio, TX. The Petro is located at Exit 582 on Interstate 10. Meanwhile, Ron Mermis has the OOIDA NASCAR simulator at the Petro in Mebame, NC. That Petro is located at Exit 157 on I-85/40. You can follow The Spirit’s schedule online here. Air date: Feb. 29, 2008.

State Update - Arizona and New Hampshire - Reed Black spoke with Land Line Magazine State Legislative Editor Keith Goble. In Arizona, a bill would require large trucks traveling along certain stretches of interstates to slow down by 5 mph, while in New Hampshire, the state Senate has passed a bill that will require law-enforcement officers to allow a tolerance of 5 percent above certain specified weight limitations for vehicles on non-interstates and general highways.

To read about more legislation in Arizona, click here.
To read about more legislation in New Hampshire, click here.

Air date: Feb. 28, 2008.

Trans-Texas Corridor – The Texas Department of Transportation is having a series of meetings and hearings about one phase of the controversial Trans-Texas Corridor.

To read more from Land Line Magazine, click here and here.
To see a complete schedule of the meetings and hearings, you can go to the Texas Department of Transportation Web site here.

Air date: Feb. 28, 2008.

The Media and Trucking – In today’s Follow Up, Reed talked about mainstream media reporting that falsifying logbooks is common. You can read some of the articles here:

For the story by CBS 4 in Denver, click here and here.
For the story by CBS 8 in Las Vegas, click here.

Air date: Feb. 28, 2008.

Commenting on HOS – OOIDA is urging truckers to file comments on the interim final Hours of Service rule. Comments on the interim final rule will be accepted through the new March 17 deadline. You will need the Docket ID, which is FMCSA-2004-19608. You must include it on any comments you submit by fax, mail or in person.

To read Land Line Magazine’s coverage, click here.
To file comments electronically, click here.
To fax comments (with the Docket ID number), use this number: (202)-493-2251.

Air date: Feb. 25, 2008.

Texas DOT Survey – Texas has asked OOIDA’s help in getting owner-operators to tell them your opinions of tolling highways in Texas. A new state highway, SH130, is a toll road that just opened around the east side of Austin, TX. TxDOT is considering several ideas, like reduced off-peak tolls, to encourage more trucks to use the new road. We would like to learn more about your travel and how it might change if SH130 offered additional incentives. You can help guide TxDOT in making SH130 work best for you. The survey ends March 1, so go online and fill it out today. To take part, click here. Air date: Feb. 28, 2008.

Commission Report - During today’s Listener Comment Line, Mark Reddig discussed the report by the National Surface Transportation Policy and Revenue Study Commission. To read the commission’s report in its entirety, click here. Air date: Feb. 28, 2008.

2009 Transportation Budget – Mark Reddig spoke with Mike Joyce of OOIDA’s Washington, DC, office about the White House’s transportation budget proposal. To read more by Land Line Magazine, click here. Air date: Feb. 28, 2008.

Letters to our Troops - OOIDA is soliciting personal letters to be sent to our soldiers overseas as part of OOIDA’s care packages. You can mail them to us at OOIDA Truckers for Troops, PO Box 1,000, Grain Valley, MO, 64029, c/o Sherry Murry, or e-mail them to sherry_murry@ooida.com. Air date: Feb. 28, 2008.

OOIDA Tour Truck and OOIDA NASCAR Simulator - Starting today, Howard and Pam Hart will have OOIDA’s Tour Truck, The Spirit of the American Trucker, at the Petro truck stop in San Antonio, TX. The Petro is located at Exit 582 on Interstate 10. Meanwhile, Ron Mermis has the OOIDA NASCAR simulator at the Petro in Mebame, NC. That Petro is located at Exit 157 on I-85/40. You can follow The Spirit’s schedule online here. Air date: Feb. 28, 2008.

Looking for Volunteers – Mark Reddig spoke with Laura O’Neill of OOIDA’s Washington, DC, office about the effort to fight a speed limiter requirement in Canada. Laura noted that OOIDA is looking for volunteers to help spread the word among truckers who either live in, or who haul into and out of Canada. To help out:

Send an e-mail here; or
Call OOIDA’s Membership Department at 1-800-444-5791.

Air date: Feb. 27, 2008.

It’s Your Business – Donna Ryun, OOIDA’s communications director and Land Line Magazine columnist, spoke about leasing on with a carrier. To send Donna a question, click here. Air date: Feb. 27, 2008.

Diabetic help – Terry Scruton spoke with dietitian Debbie Latham about diet suggestions for diabetics on the road. You can visit Debbie’s Web site here. Air date: Feb. 27, 2008.

Texas DOT Survey - Texas has asked OOIDA’s help in getting owner-operators to tell them your opinions of tolling highways in Texas. A new state highway, SH130, is a toll road that just opened around the east side of Austin, TX. TxDOT is considering several ideas, like reduced off-peak tolls, to encourage more trucks to use the new road. We would like to learn more about your travel and how it might change if SH130 offered additional incentives. You can help guide TxDOT in making SH130 work best for you. The survey ends March 1, so go online and fill it out today. To take part, click here.
Air date: Feb. 27, 2008.

Diesel update – Terry Scruton presented an update on the price of diesel fuel and crude oil.

To read this week’s price report by Land Line Magazine, click here.
To check the price today through ProMiles, click here.

Air date: Feb. 27, 2008.

Diesel comments – If you have questions or a comment about diesel prices, or you’ve seen some interesting highs and lows at the pumps wherever you are, call our “Land Line Now” Diesel Price Line. Dial 1-800-324-6856, and then press 2 to record your message. This week, we’re asking truckers to call the line to respond to this question: “Are you seeing a price difference between low sulfur and ultra low sulfur? And if you have, what is it?” Air date: Feb. 27, 2008.

Canadian speed limiters – OOIDA is encouraging truckers to call or write the top elected official in the Canadian province of Ontario to express their opinion about requiring speed limiters. Here’s the contact information:
The Honorable Dalton McGuinty
Premier of Ontario
Ferguson Block, 12th Floor
77 Wellesley St W
Toronto ON M7A1N3
Canada
Phone: (416) 325-1941.
Air date: Feb. 27, 2008.

TWIC – Mark Reddig mentioned the Transportation Worker Identification Credential, otherwise known as the TWIC program, during today’s Listener Comment Line. To visit the TWIC page on the Transportation Security Administration’s Web site, click here. Air date: Feb. 27, 2008.

OOIDA Tour Truck and OOIDA NASCAR Simulator - Starting Thursday, Howard and Pam Hart will have OOIDA’s Tour Truck, The Spirit of the American Trucker, at the Petro truck stop in San Antonio, TX. The Petro is located at Exit 582 on Interstate 10. Meanwhile, Ron Mermis has the OOIDA NASCAR simulator at the Petro in Mebame, NC. That Petro is located at Exit 157 on I-85/40. You can follow The Spirit’s schedule online here. Air date: Feb. 27, 2008.

Chance Rodgers Auction – This year at the Mid-America Trucking Show, several events will be held to benefit Chance Rodgers, a 12-year-old who was diagnosed with bone cancer last year. An auction will occur in the evening Thursday, March 27, at the parking lot of Papa John’s Stadium. Before the auction, OOIDA member and country western singer Leland Martin will perform.

For more information, you can contact Jerry Simms at Gulf Coast Filters at 1-866-728-3582.
You can visit Gulf Coast Filters’ Web site here.
You can visit Leland Martin’s Web site here.
If you need more information on the Chili CookOff that will be part of the event to benefit Chance, send an e-mail to maniac5497@yahoo.com

Air date: Feb. 26, 2008.

Driver Training Proposal - The public has until March 25, 2008, to share their thoughts with federal regulators on the proposed driver training rule. The Docket number for the proposed rule is FMCSA-2007-27748.

You can file comments online here.
You can fax your comments – with the docket number listed above – to (202)-493-2251.
You can read a special report by Land Line Magazine Senior Editor Jami Jones here.

Air date: Feb. 26, 2008.

State Update-Pennsylvania and New Jersey — Reed Black spoke with Land Line Magazine State Legislative Editor Keith Goble about a Pennsylvania bill intended to reduce unnecessary idling of large trucks, and a New Jersey bill to get tough with drivers who fail to clear snow and ice off their vehicles.

To read more about legislation in Pennsylvania, click here.
To read more about legislation in New Jersey, click here.
Air date: Feb. 26, 2008.

Discounts and Rebates - Mark Reddig mentioned OOIDA discounts and rebates for members during today’s show. To find out more, click here. Air date: Feb. 26, 2008.

The Spirit - Starting this Thursday, Howard and Pam Hart will have OOIDA’s Tour Truck, The Spirit of the American Trucker, at the Petro truck stop in San Antonio, TX. The Petro is located at Exit 582 on Interstate 10. You can follow The Spirit’s schedule online here. Air date: Feb. 26, 2008.

To read Land Line Magazine’s coverage, click here.
To file comments electronically, click here.
To fax comments (with the Docket ID number), use this number: (202)-493-2251.
Air date: Feb. 25, 2008.

Truck Insurance – Senior Correspondent Terry Scruton talked with Ed Briley of OOIDA’s Truck Insurance Customer Service Department.

If you have a question about truck insurance, you can call 1-800-715-9369.
If you have a question about truck insurance you’d like answered on the air – you can call our comment line at 1-800-324-6856.

Air date: Feb. 25, 2008.

Building America's Future coalition – Mark spoke with Rod Nofziger of OOIDA’s Washington, DC, office about a new coalition of governors pushing to increase federal funding for highways.

You can read more by Land Line Magazine staff writer David Tanner here.
You can read a press release from the office of California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger here.

Air date: Feb. 25, 2008.

You can file comments online here.
You can fax your comments - with the docket number listed above - to (202)-493-2251.
You can read a special report by Land Line Magazine Senior Editor Jami Jones here.
Air date: Feb. 25, 2008.

The Spirit - Starting this Thursday, Howard and Pam Hart will have OOIDA’s Tour Truck, The Spirit of the American Trucker, at the Petro truck stop in San Antonio, TX. The Petro is located at Exit 582 on Interstate 10. You can follow The Spirit’s schedule online here. Air date: Feb. 25, 2008.

Georgia DOT credit card fraud – The Georgia Bureau of Investigation arrested a state Department of Transportation permit clerk who allegedly used applicants’ credit card numbers to run up at least $20,000 in fraudulent purchases and deposits. If you’ve obtained an oversized permit in the past 10 months from Georgia DOT and used a credit card to pay for it, the GBI is asking:
• That you call your credit card company; and
• That you call agent John Bankhead at the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (404) 244-2600.
Air date: Feb. 22, 2008.

New Jersey Free Speech – Sandi Soendker, managing editor of Land Line Magazine, shared her thoughts about the recent arrests at a public meeting in New Jersey. To read Sandi’s blog, click here. To see a video of the arrest at the meeting, click here.
Air date: Feb. 22, 2008.

Arizona Call to Action – OOIDA has issued a Call to Action in Arizona that concerns split speed limits. You can read OOIDA’s Call to Action here.
Air date: Feb. 22, 2008.

Join the Call to Action Team – You can take a more active role by joining the OOIDA Call to Action list. To sign up, just send an e-mail with your name, membership number and current e-mail address here.
Air date: Feb. 22, 2008.

Driver Training Proposal - During today’s Listener Comment Line, Mark Reddig discussed the FMCSA’s proposed driver training rule. The public has until March 25, 2008, to share their thoughts with federal regulators. The Docket number for the proposed rule is FMCSA-2007-27748.
• You can file comments online here.
• You can fax your comments - with the docket number listed above - to (202)-493-2251.
• You can read a special report by Land Line Magazine Senior Editor Jami Jones here.
Air date: Feb. 22, 2008.

OOIDA Tour Truck and OOIDA NASCAR Simulator - Starting Saturday, Howard and Pam Hart will have OOIDA’s Tour Truck, The Spirit of the American Trucker, at the Petro truck stop in Amarillo, TX. The Petro is located at Exit 75 on Interstate 40. Meanwhile, Ron Mermis has the OOIDA NASCAR simulator at the TA truck stop in Spartanburg, SC. The TA is located at Exit 63 on Interstate 85. You can follow The Spirit’s schedule online here.
Air date: Feb. 22, 2008.

Highway Hero – Reed Black spoke with OOIDA member Richard Filiczkowski, who is one of the four finalists for Highway Hero Award.
• To read more by Land Line Magazine, click here.
• You can visit the Goodyear Highway Hero Web site here.
Air date: Feb. 21, 2008.

Truck Parking – Reed Black spoke with a trucker who took on City Hall in Hutchinson, MN, regarding truck parking rules. To read more by Land Line Magazine, click here. Air date: Feb. 21, 2008.

State Update – Pennsylvania & Nebraska - Reed Black spoke with Land Line Magazine State Legislative Editor Keith Goble. A Pennsylvania lawmaker has introduced a bill that he says is an alternative to putting tolls on Interstate 80, while a Nebraska lawmaker has offered a bill dealing with a federal weight limit exemption that’s not been followed as widely as hoped.
• To read more about legislation in Pennsylvania, click here.
• To read more about legislation in Nebraska, click here.
Air date: Feb. 21, 2008.

New Jersey Call to Action – OOIDA has issued a Call to Action in New Jersey that concerns snow and ice removal. To read the New Jersey Call to Action, click here. Air date: Feb. 21, 2008.

Trans-Texas Corridor – The Texas Department of Transportation is having a series of meetings and hearings about one phase of the controversial Trans-Texas Corridor.
• To read more from Land Line Magazine, click here.
• To see a complete schedule of the meetings and hearings, you can go to the Texas Department of Transportation Web site here.
Air date: Feb. 21, 2008.

Highway Financing - Mark Reddig spoke with Mike Joyce of OOIDA’s Washington, DC, office about a new report on highway financing.
• To read a press release from the authors that summarizes the report, click here.
• To read the full report, click here.
• To send comments to the staff director for the commission that wrote the report, Jack Wells, click here.
Air date: Feb. 21, 2008.

California Port Plan – Laura O’Neill of OOIDA’s Washington, DC, office talked about the emissions plan approved by the Port of Long Beach, CA. To read Land Line Magazine’s coverage, click here. Air date: Feb. 20, 2008.

9th District Court – Terry Scruton gave us highlights of the OOIDA oral arguments in the 9th District Court of Appears concerning the DOT’s cross-border trucking pilot program.

To read more by Land Line Magazine, click here.
To read OOIDA Press Release, click here.

Air date: Feb. 20, 2008.

Diesel update – Terry Scruton presented an update on the price of diesel fuel and crude oil.
To read this week’s price report by Land Line Magazine, click here.
To check the price today through ProMiles, click here.
Air date: Feb. 20, 2008.

Diesel comments – If you have questions or a comment about diesel prices, or you’ve seen some interesting highs and lows at the pumps wherever you are, call our “Land Line Now” Diesel Price Line. Dial 1-800-324-6856, and then press 2 to record your message. This week, we’re asking truckers to call the line to respond to this question: “Are you still running low sulfur in your truck or have you switched to ultra low sulfur? And if you have switched, have you noticed any differences between the two?”
Air date: Feb. 20, 2008.

Florida Call to Action – OOIDA has issued a Call to Action in Florida concerning red light cameras. To read the Florida Call to Action, click here. Air date: Feb. 20, 2008.

Commenting on HOS – OOIDA is urging truckers to file comments on the interim final Hours of Service rule. Comments on the interim final rule will be accepted through the new March 17 deadline. You will need the Docket ID, which is FMCSA-2004-19608. You must include it on any comments you submit by fax, mail or in person.

To read Land Line Magazine’s coverage, click here.
To file comments electronically, click here.
To fax comments (with the Docket ID number), use this number: (202)-493-2251.

Air date: Feb. 20, 2008.

Discounts and Rebates - Mark Reddig mentioned OOIDA discounts and rebates for members during today’s show. To find out more, click here. Air date: Feb. 20, 2008.

State Update – Virginia and Nebraska - Reed Black talked with Land Line Magazine State Legislative Editor Keith Goble. Virginia lawmakers are revisiting the state’s controversial bad driver fees, while a Nebraska bill is intended to help bring in additional money for roads in the state by adding a new tax to wholesale fuel purchases.

To read about more legislation in Virginia, click here.
To read about more legislation in Nebraska, click here.

Air date: Feb. 19, 2008.

CT Call to Action – OOIDA has issued a Call to Action in Connecticut that concerns snow and ice removal. To read the Connecticut Call to Action, click here. Air date: Feb. 19, 2008.

OOIDA Tour Truck and OOIDA NASCAR Simulator - Howard and Pam Hart have OOIDA’s Tour Truck, The Spirit of the American Trucker, at the Petro truck stop in El Paso, TX. The Petro is located at Exit 37 on Interstate 10. Meanwhile, Ron Mermis has the OOIDA NASCAR simulator at the TA truck stop in Spartanburg, SC. The TA is located at Exit 63 on Interstate 85. You can follow The Spirit’s schedule online here. Air date: Feb. 19, 2008.

Speed differentials – A study by University of Arkansas researchers reveals that different speed limits for cars and large trucks on highways compromise safety. You can read more about Professor Steven Johnson’s research here. Air date: Feb. 15, 2008.

OOIDA Business Seminar – The fourth OOIDA Business Seminar will be offered from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. April 8-10 at the OOIDA headquarters in Grain Valley, MO. To read more about the seminar or to enroll online, click here. You can also call 1-800-444-5791 and let the operator know you want to enroll in the business seminar. Air date: Feb. 15, 2008.

OOIDA Tour Truck and OOIDA NASCAR Simulator -Howard and Pam Hart will have OOIDA’s tour truck, The Spirit of the American Trucker, at the Petro truck stop in Kingman, AZ. The Petro is located at Exit 66 on Interstate 40. Meanwhile, Ron Mermis will have the OOIDA NASCAR simulator at the Petro in Kingsland, GA. That Petro is located at Exit 3 on I-95. You can follow The Spirit’s schedule online here. Air date: Feb. 15, 2008.

CARB – Beginning Feb. 15, truck owners whose rigs do not have an Emission Compliance Label can face fines in California. To read more by Land Line Magazine, click here. Air date: Feb. 15, 2008.

To read Land Line Magazine’s coverage, click here. Instructions on how to comment electronically can be found at the end of that story.
To file comments electronically, click here.

Fax comments with the Docket ID number, not the Document ID, to (202)-493-2251.

Air date: Feb. 15, 2008.

New Jersey – Reed Black spoke about Governor Jon Corzine’s plan to use toll money to help balance the state’s budget.

To read the initial report on the plan by Land Line Magazine, click here.
To read recent coverage by newspaper Web site Newsday.com, click here.
To read more by The Express Times newspaper, click here.

Air date: Feb. 14, 2008.

Wisconsin APU – Reed Black spoke to Miles Verhoef, an OOIDA member who represented the association at a recent meeting of the Wisconsin Clean Diesel Coalition.

To learn more about the Wisconsin Clean Diesel Coalition, you can visit their Web site here.
To learn more about the state’s Diesel Truck Idling Reduction Grant Program, click here.

Air date: Feb. 14, 2008.

Truckers for Troops - OOIDA is soliciting personal letters to be sent to our soldiers overseas as part of OOIDA’s care packages. You can mail them to us at OOIDA Truckers for Troops, PO Box 1000, Grain Valley, MO, 64029, c/o Sherry Murry, or e-mail them to sherry_murry@ooida.com. Air date: Feb. 14, 2008.

State Update – Connecticut and South Carolina - Reed Black talked with Land Line Magazine State Legislative Editor Keith Goble. Connecticut is getting tough on vehicles that have snow and ice on them, while South Carolina is taking action to make sure truckers can understand English.

To read more about legislation in Connecticut, click here.
To read more about legislation in South Carolina, click here.

Air date: Feb. 14, 2008.

Commenting on HOS – OOIDA is urging truckers to file comments on the interim final Hours of Service rule. Comments on the interim final rule will be accepted through the Feb. 15 deadline. You will need the Docket ID, which is FMCSA-2004-19608. You must include it on any comments you submit by fax, mail or in person. In order to comment electronically, you will need the Document ID. That is FMCSA-2004-19608-2528.

To read Land Line Magazine’s coverage, click here. Instructions on how to comment electronically can be found at the end of that story.
To file comments electronically, click here.
Fax comments with the Docket ID number, not the Document ID, to (202)-493-2251.

Air date: Feb. 14, 2008.

Speaking out on Speed Limiters – Laura O’Neill of OOIDA’s Washington, DC, office discussed the latest developments regarding speed limiters in Canada.

OOIDA is encouraging truckers to call or write the top elected official in the Canadian province of Ontario to express their opinion about requiring speed limiters. Here’s the contact information:
The Honorable Dalton McGuinty
Premier of Ontario
Ferguson Block, 12th Floor
77 Wellesley St W
Toronto ON M7A1N3
Canada
Phone: (416) 325-1941.
In addition, U.S. truckers should call their elected representatives to let them know how the proposal could affect them. To call any member of Congress, dial the U.S. Capitol Switchboard at (202) 224-3121.
OOIDA is looking for Ontario residents who are interested in helping with the cause more directly. Volunteers are needed. To find out how to help, call the Membership Department here at OOIDA at 1-800-444-5791.

Air date: Feb. 14, 2008.

OOIDA Web sites – Mark Reddig mentioned several of the association’s Web sites on the show today. Here’s a complete list:

Air date: Feb. 14, 2008.

OOIDA Tour Truck and OOIDA NASCAR Simulator - Howard and Pam Hart have OOIDA’s tour truck, The Spirit of the American Trucker, at the Petro truck stop in Kingman, AZ. The Petro is located at Exit 66 on Interstate 40. Also, Ron Mermis has the OOIDA NASCAR simulator at the Petro in Kingsland, GA. That Petro is located at Exit 3 on I-95. To follow The Spirit’s schedule online, click here. Air date: Feb. 13, 2008.

Don Rondeau – Mark Reddig and Jami Jones spoke with Don Rondeau about his new position at OOIDA as special adviser for transportation security.

To read the OOIDA press release, click here.
To read more by Land Line Magazine, click here.

Air date: Feb. 13, 2008.

Diesel update – Terry Scruton presented an update on the price of diesel fuel and crude oil.

To read this week’s price report by Land Line Magazine, click here.
To check the price today through ProMiles, click here.

Air date: Feb. 13, 2008.

Diesel comments – If you have questions or a comment about diesel prices, or you’ve seen some interesting highs and lows at the pumps wherever you are, call our “Land Line Now” Diesel Price Line. Dial 1-800-324-6856, and then press 2 to record your message. This week, we’re asking truckers to call the line to respond to this question: “Is anybody still seeing any regular low sulfur diesel out there? Where was it? Or is it all ultra low sulfur diesel?” Air date: Feb. 13, 2008.

Trans-Texas Corridor – The Texas Department of Transportation is having a series of meetings and hearings about one phase of the controversial Trans-Texas Corridor.

To read more from Land Line Magazine, click here.
To see a complete schedule of the meetings and hearings, you can go to the Texas Department of Transportation Web site here.

Air date: Feb. 13, 2008.

Split Speeds and HOS restrictions in Missouri - During today's Listener Comment Line, Mark Reddig mentioned a bill in Missouri, HB1563, that would create a split speed limit in the state and change the Hours of Service for in-state truckers. To read more about the bill, click here. Air date: Feb. 13, 2008.

Discounts and Rebates - Mark Reddig mentioned OOIDA discounts and rebates for members during today’s show. To find out more, click here. Air date: Feb. 13, 2008.

To read Land Line Magazine’s coverage, click here. Instructions on how to comment electronically can be found at the end of that story.
To file comments electronically, click here.
Fax comments with the Docket ID number, not the Document ID, to (202)-493-2251.

Air date: Feb. 13, 2008.

Trans-Texas Corridor – The Texas Department of Transportation is having a series of meetings and hearings about one phase of the controversial Trans-Texas Corridor.

To read more from Land Line Magazine, click here.
To see a complete schedule of the meetings and hearings, you can go to the Texas Department of Transportation Web site here.

Air date: Feb. 12, 2008.

Highway Funding – Terry Scruton gave us highlights of a second Senate highway funding hearing. To read more by Land Line Magazine, click here. Air date: Feb. 12, 2008.

Dragnet – Terry Scruton and Jami Jones discussed crime in the trucking industry in a segment called Dragnet. You can read more in the February issue of Land Line Magazine. Air date: Feb. 12, 2008.

State Update – Maine, New Hampshire and Missouri - Land Line Magazine State Legislative Editor Keith Goble talked about a bill in Maine that is intended to reduce unnecessary idling of large trucks, and about a lawmaker in New Hampshire who is pursuing legislation to address hot fuel. He also talked about a pair of Missouri bills that would put restrictions on cities’ use of automated cameras to ticket drivers.

To read more about legislation in Maine, click here.
To read more about legislation in New Hampshire, click here.
To read more about legislation in Missouri, click here.
You can also visit the OOIDA Hot Fuel Web site here.

Air date: Feb. 12, 2008.

Diesel comments – If you have questions or a comment about diesel prices, or you’ve seen some interesting highs and lows at the pumps wherever you are, call our “Land Line Now” Diesel Price Line. Dial 1-800-324-6856, and then press 2 to record your message. This week, we’re asking truckers who call the line to respond to this question: “What's the lowest price you've seen for diesel? How much and where was it?” Air date: Feb. 12, 2008.

Comments on the interim final rule will be accepted through the Feb. 15 deadline. You will need the Docket ID, which is FMCSA-2004-19608. You must include it on any comments you submit by fax, mail or in person. In order to comment electronically, you will need the Document ID. That is FMCSA-2004-19608-2528. Fax comments with the Docket ID number, not the Document ID, to (202)-493-2251. Air date: Feb. 12, 2008.

Mexican Trucks – Mark Reddig spoke with OOIDA’s Todd Spencer about the Mexican truck case now before the 9th Circuit Federal Court of Appeals in San Francisco. To read a Special Report by Land Line Magazine Senior Editor Jami Jones, click here. Air date: Feb. 12, 2008.

OOIDA Tour Truck and OOIDA NASCAR Simulator - Starting Wednesday, Howard and Pam Hart will have OOIDA’s tour truck, The Spirit of the American Trucker, at the Petro truck stop in Kingman, AZ. The Petro is located at Exit 66 on Interstate 40. Also, Ron Mermis has the OOIDA NASCAR simulator at the Petro in Kingsland, GA. That Petro is located at Exit 3 on I-95. To follow The Spirit’s schedule online, click here. Air date: Feb. 12, 2008.

Commission Report – Reed Black spoke with Rick Geddes and Tom Skancke, members of the National Surface Transportation Policy and Revenue Study Commission, about their views of the group’s final report. To read the commission’s report in its entirety, click here. Air date: Feb. 11, 2008.

Diesel comments – If you have questions or a comment about diesel prices, or you’ve seen some interesting highs and lows at the pumps wherever you are, call our “Land Line Now” Diesel Price Line. Dial 1-800-324-6856, and then press 2 to record your message. This week, we’re asking truckers who call the line to respond to this question: “What's the lowest price you've seen for diesel? How much and where was it?” Air date: Feb. 11, 2008.

Roses & Razzberries – Terry Scruton and Jami Jones offered up some of our patented Roses & Razzberries. If you are an OOIDA member and want to offer up your own rose or razzberry for our consideration, you can do it on the Internet through the Members Only section of our Web site. Just click here. Air date: Feb. 11, 2008.

OOIDA Tour Truck and OOIDA NASCAR Simulator - Starting Wednesday, Howard and Pam Hart will have OOIDA’s tour truck, The Spirit of the American Trucker, at the Petro truck stop in Kingman, AZ. The Petro is located at Exit 66 on Interstate 40. Also, starting Tuesday, Ron Mermis will have the OOIDA NASCAR simulator at the Petro in Kingsland, GA. That Petro is located at Exit 3 on I-95. To follow The Spirit’s schedule online, click here. Air date: Feb. 11, 2008.

Medical Review Board – Melissa Theriault of OOIDA’s Washington, DC, office discussed the latest meeting of the CDL Medical Review Board, which took place in Utah. Click here to view the Medical Review Board’s Web site. Air date: Feb. 11, 2008.

Membership - If you aren’t a member yet, but you’re interested in joining OOIDA, this is your chance. OOIDA members David Herren, Harold Spendlove, Richard Doerner, and James and Rae Dunn, are sponsoring the membership cost for 30 people to join OOIDA. To take part, all you have to do is call our special member offer line. Just dial 1-800-324-6856, and press 3.

Truck Parking Ban – Mark Reddig spoke with Jamie Marx, a trucker who plans to fight a ban on parking trucks at your home in the small, rural community of Hutchinson, MN. To read more about Jamie’s fight, click here. The next meeting of the town’s City Council, at which Jamie plans to speak, is 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 12. Air date: Feb. 8, 2008.

Commenting on HOS – OOIDA is urging truckers to file comment on the interim final Hours of Service rule.

To read Land Line Magazine’s coverage, click here.
To see how to file comments on the rule, click here.

Comments on the interim final rule will be accepted through Feb. 15 - You will need the Docket ID, which is FMCSA-2004-19608. You must include it on any comments you submit by fax, mail or in person. In order to comment electronically, you will need the Document ID. That is FMCSA-2004-19608-2528. Fax comments with the Docket ID number, not the Document ID, to (202)-493-2251. Air date: Feb. 8, 2008.

Rest Havens – Kentucky is opening two new so-called “rest havens” along the state’s interstates. To read more about the plan, and the state’s previous rest havens, click here. Air date: Feb. 8, 2008.

New Jersey arrests – During today’s Listener Comment Line, a caller mentioned two former officials arrested in New Jersey for trying to protest the governor’s plan to balance the state budget using toll money. To read Land Line Magazine’s coverage of the issue, click on one of these stories:

Air date: Feb. 8, 2008.

OOIDA Tour Truck - Starting Saturday, The Spirit of the American Trucker will be at the Petro truck stop in Las Vegas, NV, located at Exit 54 on Interstate 15. To follow The Spirit’s schedule online, click here. Air date: Feb. 8, 2008.

State Update – Maine and New Hampshire - Reed Black spoke with Land Line Magazine State Legislative Editor Keith Goble about an effort in Maine to give logging truckers some relief from the high costs of doing business in the state, and about New Hampshire lawmakers who are considering several bills of interest to truck drivers. To read about more legislation in Maine, click here. To read about more legislation in New Hampshire, click here. Air date: Feb. 7, 2008.

Driver Training Proposal – FMCSA is accepting comments on the proposed driver training rule. You can read a special report by Land Line Magazine Senior Editor Jami Jones here. The public has until March 25, 2008, to share their thoughts with federal regulators. The Docket number for the proposed rule is FMCSA-2007-27748. If you are going to comment online, you will need the Document ID number. That is FMCSA-2007-27748-0001. Click here to see how to comment. Air date: Feb. 7, 2008.

Blood Test - During today’s Listener Comment Line, Mark Reddig mentioned several states that are allowing law-enforcement officers to forcibly draw blood from motorists to test for drugs and alcohol. To read more, click here. Air date: Feb. 7, 2008.

Speaking out on Speed Limiters – Laura O’Neill of OOIDA’s Washington, DC, office discussed the latest developments regarding speed limiters in Canada.

OOIDA is encouraging truckers to call or write the top elected official in the Canadian province of Ontario to express their opinion about requiring speed limiters. Here’s the contact information:

The Honorable Dalton McGuinty
Premier of Ontario
Ferguson Block, 12th Floor
77 Wellesley St W
Toronto ON M7A1N3
Canada
Phone: (416) 325-1941.

In addition, U.S. truckers should call their elected representatives to let them know how the proposal could affect them. To call any member of Congress, dial the U.S. Capitol Switchboard at (202) 224-3121; for e-mail addresses, street addresses or fax number of elected officials, call the Membership Department here at OOIDA at 1-800-444-5791.

Air date: Feb. 7, 2008.

Speed Limiter Studies – Laura O’Neill also mentioned resources on the OOIDA Web site regarding speed limiters.

A study by a University of Arkansas researchers reveals that differences in speeds between cars and large trucks – such as those created by the use of speed limiters – compromise safety on highways. You can read more about Professor Steven Johnson’s research here.
OOIDA has conducted a survey of company drivers regarding speed limiters. To view the preliminary results of that research, click here.
OOIDA has also filed comments regarding speed limiters in response to a Federal Register notice by a federal agency. To view those comments, click here.
To read the latest from Land Line Magazine regarding the speed limiter issue, click here.

Air date: Feb. 7, 2008.

Highway Funding – Terry Scruton gave us highlights of a Senate highway funding hearing. To read more by Land Line Magazine, click here. Air date: Feb. 6, 2008.

Diesel update – Terry Scruton gave an update on the price of diesel fuel and crude oil. To read this week’s report on prices by Land Line Magazine, click here. To check the price today through ProMiles, click here. Air date: Feb. 6, 2008.

Diesel comments – If you have questions or a comment about diesel prices, or you’ve seen some interesting highs and lows at the pumps wherever you are, call our “Land Line Now” Diesel Price Line. Dial 1-800-324-6856, and then press 2 to record your message. This week, we’re asking truckers to call the line to respond to this question: “What's the lowest price you've seen for diesel? How much and where was it?” Air date: Feb. 6, 2008.

Trans-Texas Corridor – The Texas Department of Transportation is having a series of meetings and hearings about one phase of the controversial Trans-Texas Corridor. To read more from Land Line Magazine, click here. To see a complete schedule of the meetings and hearings, you can go to the Texas Department of Transportation Web site here. Air date: Feb. 6, 2008.

OOIDA Tour Truck - The Spirit of the American Trucker is at the Petro in Wheeler Ridge, CA, located at the Laval Road West exit on Interstate 5. To follow The Spirit’s schedule online, click here. Air date: Feb. 6, 2008.

Land Line Magazine – We previewed the upcoming February issue of Land Line Magazine on today’s program. If you’re a trucker, and you’d like to receive the magazine, click here. Air date: Feb. 5, 2008.

Commenting on HOS – OOIDA is urging truckers to file comment on the interim final Hours of Service rule.

To read Land Line Magazine’s coverage, click here.
To see how to file comments on the rule, click here.

Comments on the interim final rule will be accepted through Feb. 15. You will need the Docket ID, which is FMCSA-2004-19608. You must include it on any comments you submit by fax, mail or in person. In order to comment electronically, you will need the Document ID. That is FMCSA-2004-19608-2528. Fax comments with the Docket ID number, not the Document ID, to (202)-493-2251. Air date: Feb. 5, 2008.

Diesel comments – If you have questions or a comment about diesel prices, or you’ve seen some interesting highs and lows at the pumps wherever you are, call our “Land Line Now” Diesel Price Line. Dial 1-800-324-6856, and then press 2 to record your message. This week, we’re asking truckers to call the line to respond to this question: “What do you think about bio-diesel? What do you like or dislike about it?” Air date: Feb. 5, 2008.

State Update – Virginia and Idaho - Reed Black spoke with Land Line Magazine State Legislative Editor Keith Goble about a Virginia bill that would ensure that people issued driver’s licenses in the state understand English, and an Idaho lawmaker who wants to ease border crossings from the state into Canada. To read about more legislation in Virginia, click here. To read about more legislation in Idaho, click here. Air date: Feb. 5, 2008.

Mexican Trucks – Mark Reddig spoke with Rod Nofziger of OOIDA’s Washington, DC, office about the Mexican truck program. To read more by Land Line Magazine, click here. Air date: Feb. 5, 2008.

OOIDA Tour Truck - Starting Wednesday, The Spirit of the American Trucker will be at the Petro in Wheeler Ridge, CA, located at the Laval Road West exit on Interstate 5. To follow The Spirit’s schedule online, click here. Air date: Feb. 5, 2008.

Hours of Service - Rick Craig, Joe Rajkovacz and Jami Jones discussed the most recent court decision regarding the Hours of Service regulations. To read coverage by Land Line Magazine, click here . Air date: Feb. 4, 2008.

Commenting on HOS – OOIDA is urging truckers to file comment on the interim final Hours of Service rule. To see how to file comments on the rule, click here. Comments on the interim final rule will be accepted through Feb. 15. You will need the Docket ID, which is FMCSA-2004-19608. You must include it on any comments you submit by fax, mail or in person. In order to comment electronically, you will need the Document ID. That is FMCSA-2004-19608-2528. Fax comments with the Docket ID number, not the Document ID, to (202)-493-2251. Air date: Feb. 4, 2008.

Commission Report - Rick Craig, Joe Rajkovacz and Jami Jones discussed the recent report issued by The National Surface Transportation Policy and Revenue Study Commission, and the commission’s statements regarding Hours of Service. To read Land Line Magazine’s coverage, click here. To read the commission report, click here. Air date: Feb. 4, 2008

Diesel comments – If you have questions or a comment about diesel prices, or you’ve seen some interesting highs and lows at the pumps wherever you are, call our “Land Line Now” Diesel Price Line. Dial 1-800-324-6856, and then press 2 to record your message. This week, we’re asking truckers to call the line to respond to this question: “What do you think about bio-diesel? What do you like or dislike about it?” Air date: Feb. 4, 2008.

Insurance – Senior Correspondent Terry Scruton talked with Ed Briley, an agent with OOIDA’s Truck Insurance Department. If you have a question about truck insurance, you can call 1-800-715-9369. If you have a question about other types of insurance – or a question about truck insurance you’d like answered on the air – you can call our comment line at 1-800-324-6856. Air date: Feb. 4, 2008.

Highway Funding Reform - During the Listener Comment Line, a caller mentioned reforming how money from the Highway Trust Fund is spent. To call any member of Congress about this or any other issue, dial (202) 224-3121. Air date: Feb. 4, 2008.

English Requirement - The federal requirement for English proficiency was discussed during today’s Listener Comment Line. To read the regulation, click here, then scroll to the bottom of the page. Air date: Feb. 4, 2008.

Transportation Research Board – Mark Reddig spoke with Tom Weakly, director of operations at the OOIDA Foundation, about the annual Transportation Research Board meeting. You can visit the TRB Web site here. Air date: Feb. 1, 2008.

Where’s the beef? – Clarissa Kell-Holland, Land Line Magazine staff writer, shared some of her thoughts about food safety. To read Clarissa’s blog on the topic, click here. Air date: Feb. 1, 2008.

Canadian Speed Limiters – During today’s Listener Comment Line, Mark Reddig discussed proposals in the Canadian province of Ontario to require speed limiters. Here’s the contact information to express your opinion:
The Honorable Dalton McGuinty
Premier of Ontario
Ferguson Block, 12th Floor
77 Wellesley St W
Toronto ON M7A1N3
Canada
Phone: (416) 325-1941.
Air date: Feb. 1, 2008.

Commission Report Hearing – Mark Reddig discussed the National Surface Transportation Policy and Revenue Study Commission report on transportation funding during today’s Listener Comment Line. To read the final report in its entirety, click here. Air date: Feb. 1, 2008.

New Jersey Budget Plan – Gov. Jon Corzine of New Jersey recently announced a plan to restructure the state’s debt. Much of his plan would be paid for using toll money from the New Jersey Turnpike and other toll roads in the state. Corzine has scheduled a series of town hall meetings to gather public input on the plan; truckers are encouraged to take part. To view a list of meeting dates and places, or to register so you can take part, click here. You can also make your views on the plan known by:

Calling your lawmakers in New Jersey and opposing the plan. Just dial 1-800-792-8630.
Calling individual lawmakers. To get contact information for your lawmaker on the Web, look them up by the city you live in here; or by name, here.
Calling the governor and express your opinion about the plan,. Dial (609) 292-6000.

You can learn more about the plan online as well. To read, watch or listen to the governor’s speech, click here. You can read a Special Report by Land Line Magazine here. Air date: Feb. 1, 2008.

OOIDA Tour Truck - The Spirit of the American Trucker is at the Petro in Santa Nella, CA, located at California Highway 152 and California Highway 33, just off Exit 403 on Interstate 5. To follow The Spirit’s schedule online, click here. Air date: Feb. 1, 2008.

# posted by Mark H. Reddig @ 10:52 AM

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